Drakensberg Hiking Guide

South Africa is an incredibly diverse country with a beautiful coastline, animal-packed safaris and plenty of mountain porn. After exploring Table Mountain and Cape Town, we set off in our rental car. Destination…The Drakensberg. Passing through the wine country and the famous Garden Route, we arrived into the mountainous foothills of this incredible range. We felt right at home and were ready to explore the most beautiful area of South Africa.

Cathedral Peak in the Drakensberg

The Drakensberg is a mountain chain that runs 1,000 kilometers along the Southern African plateau and surrounds the small nation of Lesotho. It is located 3 hours south of Johannesburg. The rugged mountain peaks offer some epic hikes. There are some areas with crowds, but for the most part, solitude-seeking hikers will be easily pleased. From short walks to adventurous day hikes to multi-day treks, the Drakensberg offers it all.

Drakensberg countryside

Best Time to Visit the Drakensberg Mountains

The best time to visit the Drakensberg is during the Spring and Autumn months. November is the best month for fauna growth. March through June offers great weather and vibrant green colors after the summer rain. The summer is the rainy season and afternoon storms are common at high peak locations. The winter months have snow at higher altitudes and can get very cold.

Best Hikes in the Drakensberg

Monks Cowl

There are many hikes within Monks Cowl, from short day hikes to overnighters. The Blindman’s Corner hike via the Sphinx is an excellent day hike which takes 4-hours return. The hike starts from the Monk’s Cowl parking lot at the end of the road in Champagne Valley. If time permits, camping is available just past Blindman’s Corner.

Cost: 50 rand per person (~$3.50 USD)

Hiking in Monks Cowl

Cathedral Peak

There are some places on our travels that truly resonate with us. This hike was one of those places. It is truly unlike any other place on earth. Our hike started up the summit route to the Contour Path, and down One Tree Hill. At one point, we lost the trailhead and had to bushwhack up the side of the mountain. After 5 hours, the weather turned and started pouring rain on us. To see these lush green covered mountain peaks was oh so worth it! The total hike was 7 hours return.

Cost: 110 rand per person for entry and parking (~$7.68 USD)

Tip: The cost of the parking comes with a coupon reimbursing 30 when spending 50 rand at the hotel.

Cathedral Peak

Gudu Falls

The Gudu Falls is an easy 3-hour return hike. To make a loop, add going up the Crack and down the Mudslide to make this an adventurous 6-hour hike. Views from the top of the Crack are amazing. The highlight for us was hiking down the Mudslide which entailed various ropes and wooden ladders. It felt like a hobbit might jump out and join us.

Gudu Falls

Tugela Gorge

This 8-mile hike is easy and ends at a beautiful gorge. The hike isn’t spectacular, but the gorge at the end is lovely. Be sure to check out the ladder leading up the side of the gorge to a swimming hole. Another option is to hike directly into the gorge which requires wading through water to reach the swimming hole. For best views hike into the gorge.

Cost for the previous two hikes: Entry to the national park is 40 rand per day/person and 45 rand per day/vehicle. Camping within the park for 1 night includes the cost of 2 days, basically making the camping free. Camping at Mahai Campsite is 110 rand per person.

Tugela Gorge

Amphitheatre Rim

Wow, what can I say about this hike? It is AAHHHmazing! This is the most popular hike in all of Drakensberg and for good reason. It is so breathtaking. Although there are plenty of hostels and hotels that offer tours, it can easily be hiked alone. You won’t find solitude exploring this area but it is completely worth it. Make this hike a loop by going up the chain ladders and down the gorge. Be aware going on the chain ladders can be quite terrifying if afraid of heights. The views from the top are stunning!

Cost: 110 rand per person for entry and parking (~$7.68 USD)

Tip: The dirt road to the start of the hike can be quite rough. However, we could drive with a normal/small car. In case of rain organize transport with Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge.

On top of the Amphitheatre

Golden Gate National Park

Not technically in the Drakensberg but just a short drive from the Amphitheater is Golden Gate National Park. It is known for its wonderful colors and sandstone rock formations. It is free to drive on highway R712 which cuts through the National Park and offers several scenic areas and chances to spot wildlife. Camping is available at Glen Reenen Rest Camp situated below the spectacular cliffs.

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